2017 ISSUE 3 NEWSLETTER

8th International Conference on UNESCO Global Geoparks in Adamello Brenta Geopark

WWW.GLOBALGEOPARK.ORG WWW.GLOBALGEOPARKSNETWORK.ORG GGN NEWSLETTER 2017 ISSUE 3

Published by: Office of the Global Geoparks Network (supported by UNESCO and MLR of China) Chinese Geoparks Network Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences

Editor: Yuan Zheng.

Editorial board: Nickolas Zouros, Yuan Zheng, Min Wang, Zhiguang Zhang, Wenyan Sun, Wei Li, Yanfei Gu, Yaqi Xu.

Contributors: Nickolas Zouros, Liu Fang, Hiroaki Tkanishi, Miguel A. Cruz-Pérez & Carles Canet & Erika Salgado, Li Feng, Elena Mateo Mederos & Clara Bonilla Cabrera & Susana Gómez Castiñeira, Fu Chonghua & Liu Zhansen, Jie Yusheng & Zhan Shuai, Yu Dongliang & Zhao Wenxuan, Yu Guosheng, Chen Jinxin & Wang Zhixian, Maurizio Burlando, Tsubasa Ogasawara, Chen kaili, Mahito Watanabe & Charalampos Fassoulas, Zhang Jianping, Vajolet Masè, Institution of Madonie Park, Hong Kong UGGp, Oki Islands UNESCO Global Geopark Promotion Committee, Jeju Island UGGp, Dong Van Karst Plateau UGGp, Zhangjiajie UGGp, Styrian Eisenwurzen UGGp, Institution of Madonie Park, Terras de Cavaleiros UGGp, HIST, Basque Coast UGGp.

Copyright: The newsletter and all the contributions and illustrations contained therein are protected by copyright. No part of this newsletter may be copied or reproduced without the written approval of the publishers. This also includes commercial reproduction as any electronic media.

Contact: Address: 26 Baiwanzhuang Road, Beijing, 100037, P.R. China Tel: +86-10-68999623 Fax: +86-10-68310894 Email: [email protected] Website: www.globalgeopark.org CONTENTS GGN Networking and Common Activities Celebrating United Nations International Days to Raise Profile of the UNESCO Global Geoparks...... 2 Report on the GGN Contribution in the Celebration of the International Day for Disaster Reduction, 13 October 2017....3 The Activities to Commemorate the 28th International Day of Reducing Natural Disasters in Leiqiong UNESCO Global Geopark...... 8 Delegates from Huanggang Dabieshan Geopark Visit Three European Geoparks for Communication and Cooperation.....9 Successful Meeting of the Interreg Danube GeoTour Project in Wildalpen, Austria from 20th – 23rd September 2017...... 11 Geo-Tourism First Workshop on Sustainable Tourism and Geoparks Sevilla 25-26 November 2017 ...... 13 Benefiting Geopark Communities through Capacity Building and the Promotion of Responsible GreenTourism ...... 16 Geotourism on the Oki Islands...... 18 Connecting Geoheritage and Society at the Comarca Minera UNESCO Global Geopark, Mexico...... 19 Activities and Events Huanggang Dabieshan Geopark Museum —the Paradise of Geoscience Popularization ...... 21 Sant’Otiero Geological Site ...... 23 Elementary School Exchange Program and Experience Tongari Program in Mt. Apoi Geopark...... 24 Jeju Island Geopark Interpreter Bearing a Torch for the 2018 Winter Olympics...... 25 “Haría Extreme Lanzarote” A Running Competition Across Lanzarote and Chinijo Islands UNESCO Global Geopark... 26 The Dong Van Karst Plateau UNESCO Global Geopark held several activities in response to the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development of the United Nations...... 27 A Series of Science Popularization Activities by Jingpohu Global Geopark...... 28 Geo-Education A Lecture on Geopark Development and Science Popularization Given to Volunteers...... 30 Lesvos Island UNESCO Global Geopark Share Experience in Earthquake Disaster Contribution to Education of the Children and Monitoring of Seismic Activity ...... 31 Amateur Astronomers Gathered for Star Party at Danxiashan UGGp ...... 32 Promotion and Communication A Miniature Village —the Project “Petralilium in Praesepio”...... 34 Shennongjia UGGp’s Promotion Aims to Boost Local Economy...... 35 “Sports & Tourism” Boost the Green Development...... 36 Terras de Cavaleiros UNESCO Global Geopark...... 38 Geotourism Infrastructures in the Beigua UNESCO Global Geopark ...... 40 The Latest Research Tells the Best Angle to Observe Geological Heritages...... 42 Leiqiong UNESCO Global Geopark Promoted the Sustainable Development of Shishan Town Tourism by Holding Special Activities...... 43 Workshop and Course International Workshop on Cave Protection and Disaster Prevention in 2017 ...... 44 Training Course on Using Space Technologies for UNESCO Global Geoparks Convened in Beijing ...... 46 Review of the 3rd International Training Course on Global Geoparks, Beijing, China...... 47 The Basque Coast UNESCO Global Geopark Hosts the 3rd Basque Country Geodiversity Conference...... 50 Future Conferences and Courses International Intensive Course on UNESCO Global Geoparks 2018 “UNESCO Global Geoparks and Geoheritage management” June 7-17, 2018, Lesvos island – ...... 51 8th International Conference on UNESCO Global Geoparks —Adamelo Brenta UNESCO Global Geopark Italy,10-14 September 2018...... 52 1 GGN NEWSLETTER 2017 ISSUE 3 GGN Networking and Common Activities

elebrating United Nations C International Days to Raise Profile of the UNESCO Global Geoparks

UNESCO Global Geoparks is This year, several UNESCO Global territories. Yet mountains are under the youngest site designation of Geoparks organized events in the threat from climate change, land UNESCO and need visibility through frame of a common campaign for degradation, over exploitation and communication activities to raise the International Day for Disaster natural disasters, with potentially their profile as excellent territories Risk Reduction. A variety of events far-reaching and devastating hosting geological heritage sites coordinated by the GGN Geo- consequences, both for mountain of international importance, as hazard Working Group included communities and the rest of the sustainable tourism destinations, public talks, activities with schools world. as learning territories promoting or other groups, implementation To gain further support to their sustainable social and economic of educational programs, small activities and promote the values development, as hidden treasures exhibitions and other actions. of Earth heritage protection and to visit, explore, discover and live! On December 11th, 2017, sustainable local development, the At present, there are 127 UNESCO UNESCO Global Geoparks Global Geoparks Network Executive Global Geoparks in 35 countries. celebrated the International Mountain Board encourages UNESCO They are all institutional members of Day by a campaign through social Global Geoparks to celebrate jointly the Global Geoparks Network. media to promote their role in raising under common campaigns for UN At the meeting of the Global social interest on mountains and in International Days in 2018. The GGN Geoparks Network Executive revitalizing mountainous communities will organize the common campaign Board held on December 3rd, 2017 through geotourism activities. The for the promotion of the activities in Beijing, the Board members majority of the 127 UNESCO Global using the GGN promotional tools discussed about the importance of Geoparks are located in mountainous through internet. using the UN International Days as an opportunity to promote UNESCO Global Geoparks and to underline The proposed International Days in which Geoparks can their contribution to raise awareness organize events are the following: on the environmental protection - International Earth Day - 22 April 2018 and care of our planet. During the - International Museum Day - 18 May 2018 meeting, the Board Members also - World Environment Day - 5 June 2018 discussed on some critical issues - International Day for Disaster Reduction - 13 October 2018 of global importance such us geo- - International Mountain Day - 11 December 2018 hazard risk reduction and climate Nickolas Zouros change awareness.

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eport on the GGN Contribution in the Celebration of the International R Day for Disaster Reduction , 13 October 2017

The Global Geoparks Network, adapted the proposal and move models explaining faults and earthquakes of the EGN Working Group on Geohazards, that was mechanisms, related to internal and surface Earth taken during the September 2017 EGN meeting at structure. They also created their own experimental Azores Geopark, to participate in the celebration of the seismograph. As they learned about what to do in case International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction that has of emergency, now in the current days, they keep going been declared by the UN for the 13th of October each on preparing an escape way out of the classrooms and year. an emergency-kit adapted to the classrooms. They also A call was shared by the GGN Working Group on decided to change furniture and sitting arrangements in Geohazards to all UNESCO Global Geoparks and several order to limit the risk of object falling in case of tremor… Geoparks from Europe and Asia responded positively will they now succeed in inducing such behaviors at and managed to organize at a short time several public home? (Contact: Marie-Jo Soncini, [email protected]) activities to raise awareness of citizens on disaster risk reduction and share information for the mitigation of risks, Lesvos UGGp, Greece as well as prevention and preparedness measures. Most Lesvos Island UNESCO Global Geopark on the of the activities were organized on the 13th October 2017, occasion of the International Day for Disaster Reduction but some a few days prior or after, in order to fit with on 13th October 2017 launched for local schools the other already, prescheduled activities. 12 geoparks from educational program “Natural processes in our Planet. Europe participated in the activities, whereas19 geoparks Let’s familiarize ourselves with the earthquakes”, which from Asia Pacific Network. The event was also promoted took place at the Natural History Museum of the Lesvos by the UNESCO’s webpage for the IDDR celebration. Petrified Forest in Sigri. Highlights of the educational A short description of some of the various activities program were experiential educational activities of organized by the UGGs can be found bellow. simulating large and destructive earthquakes in the earthquake simulator of the Museum and implementation Haute Provence UGGp, France of the protection measures during an earthquake from Haute Provence UGGp organized activities in the the pupils. Motive for organizing the specific event was school of Barras and Mirabeau villages (Alpes de Haute- the destructive earthquake on the 12th June 2017 in Provence, France). The pupils (8-10 years old) of Barras , Lesvos Island where happened one casualty and Mirabeau schools did attempt an educational and many damages in houses and infrastructure. The workshop called “Understanding earthquakes help to school of Vrisa was totally destroyed, during lessons act and react: before, during and after” with the UGHP when at the time of the earthquake two children and their education officer. They had the opportunity to use teacher were inside. The educational program aimed

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to raise awareness, to inform and prepare pupils for visitors of Geopark about the existing natural risks (ie. the case of another earthquake and to familiarize them Earthquakes, wild fires and heavy snow fall) and how with protection measures that have to be taken before, to protect themselves. The secondary school classes during and after an earthquake. Pupils completed the prepared projects and power point presentations on program having new experiences and knowledge about earthquakes, tsunamis and climate change. In each event, earthquakes and protection measures. They participated interesting discussions followed with the participation of with great enthusiasm in the experiential educational pupils and their teachers. activity of simulating earthquakes. They were sensitized and understood about the need of protective measures. Very interesting was the statement of many pupils that they would inform their parents and relatives about the protection measures they have learnt and implemented during the Day for Disaster Reduction. (Contact: Ilias Valiakos, [email protected])

Beigua UGGp, Italy On 13th October 2017, during the International Day for Disaster Reduction, the Beigua UNESCO Global Geopark promoted an event with local schools to remember the 40th anniversary of the dreadful flood which affected the Psiloritis UGGp, Greece Rossiglione Municipality on 6th October 1977. The event On the occasion of the celebration of the IDRR, the has been organized in collaboration with local Authorities Psiloritis UGGp, in collaboration with its partners, the and local civil protection volunteers. It involved 5 classes Natural History Museum of the Uni. of Crete and the of the Rossiglione School Department (2 classes of Anogia Environmental Educational Center, organized on primary school and 3 classes of high school) with a total the 13th of October two events for primary and secondary of 110 students. The students visited the place where schools at Anogia. In each event, Dr C. Fassoulas gave the flood occurred with geologists and volunteers of civil a talk on the Natural risks of Psiloritis Geopark and the protection who told about the hydrogeological hazard, measures to improve prevention, preparedness and the floods of 1977 with the causes and consequences, resilience of the communities. The schools had developed and local policies on the reduction of natural hazards. in advance several activities, which were demonstrated At the end of the visit, students moved to the cinema to after the talks in front of pupils and teachers. The primary watch the original photos about the flood on 1997 and school along the whole week passed, developed small listen some testimonies by the older local people who projects to identify risks at their area and to propose experienced the natural disaster in 1977. The students activities to mitigate them. Younger classes developed participated in a very active way showing great attention constructions and paintings while older classes developed especially during the stories of the people who lived the posters, presentations and even theatrical plays, in event and during the show of original photos. The event collaboration with the English course to inform potential aimed to raise awareness among younger generations

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of the hydrogeological hazard and natural risks through a catastrophic event in their territory lived by people very close to them. (Contact: Maurizio Burlando, direttore@ parcobeigua.it)

Gea Norvegica UGGp, Norway The period of 13th October coincides in Norway with school vacations, thus Gea Norvegica UGGp organized an event for schools on the 4th of October 2017 related with flood risk. For 2018 the geopark intends to collaborate with the Norwegian Hydrological Council to develop a school Apuan Alps UGGp, Italy program related with flooding and connected problems. On the occasion of the International Day for Disaster (Contact: Kristin Ragnes, [email protected]) Reduction, on 13th October 2017, Apuan Alps UNESCO Global Geopark promoted an event with local schools under the title "Words written by the rain" to remember the awful flood which affected the Versilia and Garfagnana areas of the Geopark on 19th June 1996. The activity concerned the presentation of the project “Rains and Ruins" to about 40 pupils attending the secondary school in Ponte Stazzemese (Lucca), in the core area of the 1996 flood. The event was aimed at raising the awareness of young generations in understanding of natural processes and hazards by a short lesson about the hydrogeological risk through videos, images and practical learning experience. The pupils Cilento Vallo di Diano UGGp, Italy participated very actively showing great attention above On the occasion of the International Day for Disaster all during the practical experience simulating a debris flow, Reduction, on 13th October 2017, Cilento Vallo di Diano a typical feature during the awful flood. (Contact: Alessia UNESCO Global Geopark promoted an event under the Amorfini, [email protected]) title “Innovative approaches for raise public awareness on geohazards, climate changes and sustainable uses Chablais UGGp, France of geo-resources” and taken place at a high school Chablais UNESCO Global Geopark organised in Vallo della Lucania, the Liceo Scientifico "Leonardo da Vinci". The activity concerned the presentation of several types of geohazards and how the institution creates a sustainable use of georesources, to about 50 pupils attending the secondary school. During this event the professor Setsuya Nakada explained by skype in video conference, to the pupils the natural processes and geohazards in Japan, and also about the geohazards in Italy. The pupils participated very actively showing great attention. (Contact: Aniello ALoia, [email protected])

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two different workshops on the 14th of October 2017 spectacular gorge is one of the most important geosites in dedicated to raise awareness on geohazards. More than the Ore of the Alps UNESCO Global Geopark. The rockfall 600 people participated in the event during all day. Most - approximately 300 tons - occurred during the snowmelt communication was based on tsunamis, but discussions in spring and destroyed some walkways. This was the were also made on earthquakes, landslips and rockfalls. reason why the gorge was closed for visitors the whole All risks affecting Chamblais territory! (Contact: Sophie season 2017. Around 80 persons attended the lecture at Justice, [email protected]). the University of Salzburg. (Contact: Horst Ibetsberger horst, [email protected])

Sitia UGGp, Greece Sitia Geopark organized with the collaboration of Local Fire Brigade and volunteer groups and experiential and information action for two local schools that were focused on natural disasters, mitigation measures and evacuation drills for the case of earthquake and fire. (Contact: V. Perakis, [email protected])

San’In Kaigan UGGp, Japan San’In Kaigan Geopark in Japan organized on the 13th Azores UGGp. Portugal of October 2017 two events related to the celebration of the IDRR. The first took place at the Hyogo Prefectural The staff of the Azores UGG provided under the scope Government, Tajima District Administration Office of the International Day for Disaster Reduction (on 13th presenting the “Comprehensive flood control project, a October 2017) promoted by the EGN/GGN WG on display of rainwater storage facility materials. The second Geohazards two talks at local schools. At Ponta Delgada took place at the Akaishi, Tchino and Kan'nabe Areas, in in S. Miguel Island Mr J.C. Nunes talked in front of about Toyooka city and was actually a field trip in the nearby 200 students and teachers at "Domingos Rebelo" High areas focused on disaster prevention. (Contact: Kara School about Geohazards and mitigation measures. Furusawa, [email protected]). At Horta in Faial island, Ms Salomé Menezes talked in front of about 150 students and teachers at "Manuel de Muroto UGGp, Japan Arriaga" High School on the natural risks of Azores and Muroto UGGp on 13th October 2017 lunched an risk mitigation. (Contact: João Carlos Carreiro Nunes joao, [email protected])

Ore of the Alps UGGp, Austria The 13th of October 2017 was the day, when the event "50 Years Department of Geology in Salzburg" (Austria) was celebrated. Horst Ibetsberger (scientific director of Ore of the Alps UNESCO Global Geopark) was invited to talk about "UNESCO Global Geopark". One main topic was, referring to the “International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction”, the rockfall in the Liechtensteinklamm. The

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exhibition at the geopark’s center on earthquake interpretations. Events were focused on the Climate of disaster prevention. The exhibition was mainly focused Lushan and prevention and reduction of natural disasters, on the Nakai earthquake for which a report on its on the popularization of skills for the prevention and risk impacts and a leaflet was developed. Further displays reduction and dissemination of best practices for risk were presenting books on the tsunami and earthquake reduction. impacts mitigation as well posters on safe evacuation measures. (Contact: Kara Furusawa, kana.furusawa@ Zhangjiajie UGGp, P.R. China geopark.jp) The Zhangjiajie UNESCO Global Geopark organized at its Central geopark area a science Hexigten UGGp, P.R. China popularization activity on the 13th October 2017 Hexigten Global Geopark Administration office to promote geoaprks activities as well as scientific organized a small exhibition for Schools and Communities, research and results from the management of which comprised some dissemination boards in local geohazards mitigation in geopark territories. On Schools and Communities. The aim was to raise the event posters and photos were displayed, awareness on the International Day for Disaster Risk presentations and question-answers discussions Reduction and provide more information on natural provided, brochures and other printed materials induced disasters. distributed to visitors.

Leye-Fengshan UGGp, P.R. China Jingpohu UGGp, P.R. China The Leye-Fengshan UGGp organized at the Dashiwei, The Jingpohu administration committee and Luomeidong, Wangshougu, and Sanmenhai, as well as Mudanjiang University organized three events at the Main Monument Square of Leye-Fengshan UGGp the Jingpohu UGG square and scenic spot and public events to disseminate information and offer lectures Mudanjiang Normal University where publications and leaflets on geo-disasters and tourism safety. The and leaflets on natural disasters, geological relics events were addressed to geopark’s staff as well as local and other related information were demonstrated and inhabitants. shared. Lectures were also given on geo-hazards and useful information were provided on risk mitigation to Leiqiong UGGp, P.R. China tourists. Leiqiong geopark organized at Wuyuanhe school Lectures, displays and other public activities & Mt.Ma'an scenic district various activities including were also organized at the Polino UGGp and Sesia a photo exhibition on natural disasters intending to Val Grande UGGp in Italy, and at the Danxiashan, offer students and tourists an intuitive vision about Huanggang-Dabieshan, Huangshan, Shennongjia, natural disasters, a broadcasting video on natural Songshan, Taishan, Tianzhushan, Yanqing, disasters and special lectures on disaster reductions. Yandangshan, Xingwen and Wudalianchi UNESCO Special leaflets and other printed information were Global Geoparks of the P.R. of China. disseminated as well. We hope that after an earlier and better organization, more Geoparks will be able to participate in the IDDR Lushan UGGp, P.R. China 2018 celebration. Lushan UGGp organized at its Science popularization base and the Kuling Street in Lushan several events For the GGN Geohazards Working Group including lectures, interpretation board displays and site Mahito Watanabe and Charalampos Fassoulas

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The Activities to Commemorate the 28th International Day of Reducing Natural Disasters in Leiqiong UNESCO Global Geopark

Leiqiong UNESCO Global Geopark, China

In response to the call of encourage students and visitors help. Students actively joined in the Geohazard Working Group of GGN to have a better understanding of discussion, learned a lot through on Oct.13, 2017, Leqiong UNESCO natural disasters. lectures and understood the causes Global Geopark held activities to We invited Prof. Tao Kuiyuan, the and impact of natural disasters. The commemorate the 28th International famous volcanic geologist in China, lectures succeeded in raising their Day of Reducing Natural Disasters and Mr. Wang Zhenya, Deputy awareness of disaster prevention. with the theme of “Build a safe home Director of Zhanjiang Seismological As a vital issue that concerns away from disasters and reduce Bureau, to give lectures on the interests of human, reducing losses”. More than 500 local school earthquake disaster prevention disaster is an important measure students and visitors participated in and natural disasters reduction in to ensure safety of our lives and the activities. Haiyuan Wuyuanhe School and promote harmony of the society. Leiqiong UNESCO Global Geopark Huguangyan Park. They explained Through these activities, people held a photo exhibition focusing on types of volcanoes, current situation could strengthen their awareness natural disasters, intended to give of volcanoes, serious damages of reducing natural disaster and the students and visitors an intuitively when volcanoes erupt or several ability of dealing with unexpected vision about natural disasters. other disasters such as tsunami, disasters. Science popularization materials earthquake occur and how the were distributed and natural disaster earthquake monitoring system works Jie Yusheng, Zhan Shuai popularization films were played as well as the knowledge of disaster L e i q i o n g U N E S C O G l o b a l G e o p a r k in a continuous loop, which could prevention, rescue and mutual [email protected]

Lecture was held in Haikou district of Distributed science popularization Leiqiong UNESCO Global Geopark materials

The Activities to Commemorate the 28th International Day of Photo exhibition of International Day of Lecture was held in Zhanjiang of Reducing Natural Disasters in Leiqiong UNESCO Global Geopark Reducing Natural Disasters Leiqiong UNESCO Global Geopark

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Delegates from Huanggang Dabieshan Geopark Visit Three European Geoparks for Communication and Cooperation

Huanggang Dabieshan Global Geopark, China

To further network with foreign delegates from Huanggang seafloor, with a total area of 12,884 geoparks, delegates from Huanggang Dabieshan Geopark arrived in Azores km2, where they have visited Sao Dabieshan Geopark paid a visit to UGGp, Portugal to attend the 14th Miguel volcanic Geo-heritage and three Geoparks respectively located European Geoparks Conference. its local communities. It is the first in Portugal, Germany and France for The Azores UNESCO Global time that delegates from Huanggang cooperation and collaboration from Geopark is supported on a network Dabieshan Geopark participated Sept 7th to 15th, 2017. of 121 geosites located in all the in such kind of international From the start of this journey, nine islands and the surrounding Geopark Conference, which shows

Delegates from Huanggang Dabieshan Geopark in Bergstrasse- Delegates from Huanggang Dabeishan Geopark in Chablais Odenwald UGGp, Germany UGGp, France

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Huanggang Dabieshan Geopark’s determination, ability and confidence to be a member of UNESCO Global Geoparks. After that, delegates from Huanggang Dabieshan Geopark arrived in Bergstrasse-Odenwald UGGp, Germany. Invited by Dr. Marie-Luise Frey, director of Messel Pit WHS, they visited Messel Pit and its Geopark Museum. Impressed by its magnificent geoheritages and various activities for popular science on different subjects, which have landscape of Rhododendron in Huanggang Dabieshan Geopark, photographed by Xu Yuanchao attracted a large number of visitors both indoors and overseas, delegates Huanggang Dabieshan popularization, scientific research from Huanggang Dabieshan Geopark launched the programme and to stimulate the development Geopark have had an extraordinarily to cooperate and collaborate of local communities. Moreover, it is unforgettable journey. overseas since 2015, when they bound to promote the coordinated Delegates from Huanggang have the intent to apply for the development of economy, society and Dabieshan Geopark ended their membership of UNESCO Global environment via geological tourism journey in Chablais UGGp, France, Geoparks. So far delegates from to achieve sustainable development where they had met its managers Huanggang Dabieshan Geopark of the geopark and continues to and geologists. Unanimously have visited about 10 African and contribute to the development of agreeing with each others’ Geopark European countries. In the future, Global Geoparks Network. management concept and future Huangang Dabieshan Geopark Li Feng development plan, they both have will of course observe all rules Administration Committee of reached a preliminary intent of being of Global Geoparks to protect Huangang Dabieshan Geopark sister geoparks. geological relics, to promote science [email protected]

Paradise Lake in Huanggang Dabieshan Geopark, photographed by Chen Yongbin

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uccessful Meeting of the Interreg S Danube GeoTour Project Project meeting in Wildalpen, Austria from 20th – 23rd September 2017

Styrian Eisenwurzen UNESCO Global Geopark, Austria

Last week the second get-together the Geoparks regions and act as of the project partners took place an innovative tourism product to in Austria. The UNESCO Global accelerate visibility and tourist Geoparks Karawanken-Karavanke visits in the geoparks. Sharing and Styrian Eisenwurzen had the experiences, testing pilot Geotourism chance to welcome the 11 project products and new interpretative partners from 8 countries. The subtitle approaches should increase local shows the goal and challenge which inhabitants' engagement, Geopark the partners are facing: Valorisation management capacities and lower of geo-heritage for sustainable and the quality gap between Danube and innovative tourism development of other EU Geoparks. Danube Geoparks. The project is co- During the first day in the funded by European Union funds Geopark Karawanken-Karavanke (ERDF, IPA). in Carinthia, the partners had the Visit of the Kraus cave in Gams The main project result will be possibility to learn more about joint Danube GeoTour designed to GeoInterpretation during a workshop to the Geopark Information Centre in strengthen cooperation between in the municipality Zell/Sele. A visit Bad Eisenkappel/Železna Kapla took place to explore various best practice examples for GeoInterpretation. In addition, the partners enjoyed three days within the heart of Austria at the UNESCO Global Geopark Styrian Eisenwurzen. In the Hotel Bergkristall Wildalpen the partners found everything they needed for their meeting and workshops. During “Capitalization” our partners learned more about other Interreg Danube projects especially Danubeparks and Visit of the Info Centre in Bad Eisenkappel ECOKarst (www.interreg-danube.

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Group Picture

eu). The Welcome Dinner at the Spring Water Museum Wildalpen and the field trip within the GeoVillage Gams were a welcoming diversion to see the different GeoSights within the Eisenwurzen. In conclusion, every partner was satisfied with the successful meeting. At the end, we'd like to add many thanks to the organizers from Karawanken- Karavanke and Styrian Eisenwurzen including all their involved helpers and partners. Visit of the Noth Gorge in Gams

More information about the project and organizers are available within the following links: www.interreg-danube.eu/danube-geotour www.eisenwurzen.com www.geopark-karawanken.at

Visit of the GeoCentre Gams

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First Workshop on Sustainable Tourism and Geoparks Sevilla 25-26 November 2017

The 1st International Workshop on Sustainable Tourism and Geoparks was held in Seville, 24-26th November, 2017. This event, celebrated in the framework of the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development 2017, was organized by the Andalusian Ministry of Tourism and Sport, and the Andalusian Ministry of Environment and Territorial Planning. The International Seminar on Sustainable Tourism and Geoparks held in Seville was inaugurated by the Minister of Tourism and Sports Francisco Javier Fernández; the Vice Minister of Environment and Territorial Planning, José Luis Hernández, and the representative of the Division of Earth Sciences of UNESCO, Katriene Heirman. The latter was very honored by the work that is being done from Andalusia with the geoparks. The Deputy Minister of Environment, explained the incorporation of sustainability to different strategies, as well as geodiversity with specific tourism product. "From the Junta de Andalucía we are aware that natural resources and geoparks promote economic development and conservation." The Minister of Tourism, Francisco Javier Fernández, recalled the commitment of the Junta de Andalucía for the role of Andalusia in sustainable tourism for development. of the international seminar and the importance of the In this regard, he recalled the work is being done. On Geoaprks development to the media in a gala event. the other hand, he pointed out the need to take care The event included the presentation of the Spanish of the cultural aspect of these territories "because the UNESCO Global Geopark earth heritage and their natural heritage and its use must go together with the contribution to local economic development through development of the population and be considered as a geotourism activities, by Jose Barrera, Villuercas-Ibores- generator of employment and wealth," said Fernandez. Jara UNESCO Global Geopark and Lucia Tejero, Cabo de The Minister of Tourism Francisco Javier Fernández Gata Nijar UNESCO Global Geopark. and the Vice Minister of the Environment José Luis UNESCO Global Geoparks experts participated in Hernández presented the reasons for the organization this event, which is targeted to managers and technical

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The Andalusian Strategy for Integrated Management of Geodiversity and Andalusian Geoparks was presented by Javier Madrid - General Director for Natural Resources Management and Protected Areas in Andalusia. The President of the Global Geoparks Network Prof. N. Zouros presented the initiatives to promote Geoparks as sustainable tourism destinations in partnership with the World Tourism Organization in the frame of the International Year of Sustainable Tourism through participation in international Tourism fairs, International Conferences, meetings, seminars and press conferences with international journalists throughout 2017. The Coordinator of the European Geoparks Network K. Rangnes presented the role of Geoparks in sustainable development goals of the United Nations. Ángel García Cortés representing Spanish National Committee of Geoparks presented the contribution of Geoparks in sustainable tourism in Spain. Two round tables were organised to discuss good practices in geotourism and promotion and commercialization of ecotourism experiences. Antonio García Jiménez, Sierras Subbeticas UNESCO Global Geopark coordinated the discussions. Antonino Sanz Metencio Sierra Norte de Sevilla UNESCO Global Geopark, Javier López Caballero Villuercas-Ibores-Jara UNESCO Global Geopark in Extramadura, Carlos Carvalho Naturtejo UNESCO Global Geopark in Portugal, Prof Jose Luis Palacio Mixteca Alta UNESCO Global Geopark in Mexico and Marie Luise advisors on Environment and Tourism, and enterprises, Frey Messel Pit WHS in Bergstrasse Odenwald UNESCO all related to natural protected areas, especially Global Geopark in Germany shared their experiences on Geoparks. Representatives and local authorities from the Geotourism development. Andalusian UNESCO Global Geoparks (Cabo de Gata- Geoparks were promoted as the most innovative Níjar, Sierras Subbéticas, Sierra Norte de Sevilla) and places for the development of Sustainable Tourism in the the aspiring Geopark (Cuaternario Valles del Norte de national and international tourism market. Geotourism Granada) participated in the seminar and presented the was presented as an emerging typology in the national achievements of the Geoparks to support local economy and international tourism market. Tourism stakeholders of and employment through Geotourism. natural areas were offered guidance to manage tourism in Ms. Carmen Arjona, General Director of Quality, a sustainable manner. Innovation and Tourism Promotion of the Junta de More than 150 participants were present and among Andalucía presented the policy for Sustainable Tourism them tourism enterprises and journalists of media who in Andalusia: Challenges for Development focusing on made the event widely known. Geoparks.

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The main conclusions of the Seminar are:

1.Geoparks are helping to put in practice the UN sustainable development targets, especially in relation with the need to confront problems from a holistic point of view, the importance of local empowerment, especially women and consider apart from the diversity, the culture and the rest of territories heritage. 2.There is agreement on the importance of sustainable tourism in Geoparks as an important activity towards territories development, where there are also depopulation problems. 3.It is agreed that the challenge is to make geoparks into outstanding destinations for quality tourism always within sustainablity. 4.There are some important tools which are already working in Geoparks and Tourism like the European charter for sustainable tourism, Global Geopark network, Sustainable tourism Plan..... 5.The real challenge is to look for communication channels to work in an integral way which includes the administrative coordination considering the private sector and especially local communities. 6.The development of the European charter is a good example of integrated work that generated positive synergies to get important socioeconomical changes. 7.There are valuable examples of how to create local socieconomic structures and getting effective local participation supported by new technologies. Nickolas Zouros

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Benefiting Geopark Communities through Capacity Building and the Promotion of Responsible Green Tourism

Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark, China

The geopark concept has provided Route in Hong Kong” new ideas and momentum for the by readers of a popular development of sustainable green tourism magazine. The tourism in Hong Kong. In this recognition by local regard, Hong Kong UNESCO Global media and their readers Geopark (HKUGGp) continues to helps promote HKUGGp make good use of local knowledge as a premier world-class and at the same time explores tourism destination and and enriches tourism products and a valuable platform for projects with the support of the local long-term collaboration communities and our partners in the among the geopark, its tourism industry. partners and the local communities. Visit to the award-winning High Island Geo-trail with Tourism Commission of Being the best location to observe To benefit geopark communities the Hong Kong Government Hong Kong’s world class hexagonal through the promotion of responsible rock columns at close range, the and sustainable geo-tourism, in both Ap Chau and Tai Po, training 2.8 km High Island Geo-trail was HKUGGp provided capacity building villagers to engage them in the long- recently voted “My Favorite Hiking opportunities for the local community term development of the geopark

Community leaders visited High Island Geo-trail, HKUGGp

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Dr. Helga Chulepin met local communities and partner of Dr. Marie L. Frey met local communites and partner of HKUGGp HKUGGp at Ap Chau at Ap Chau and their community. Around fifty geopark guides during their visits to sing, Secretary for the Environment participants from Ap Chau and Tai HKUGGp in September and October of the Hong Kong Government, Po completed the training and are 2017. community leaders of the Tai Po and now ready to provide local guided Concurrent with the successful North District, and geopark partners tours of the HKUGGp. “The training completion of the capacity building from the tourism sector. allows the participants to acquire programme was the official reopening "Geoparks is not just about rocks. valuable knowledge and be well- of the Tai Po Geoheritage Centre They are also about people and how prepared for rising demand from the after its latest enhancements. To they value their natural and cultural geo-tourism market. We are ready mark this major milestone and to heritage,” said Mr Wong Kam-sing. to receive geopark visitors and is celebrate the graduation of the “We have been pleased to witness looking forward to the opening of the villagers in their capacity building the long-term collaboration among Ap Chau Visitor Centre.” said Mr. journey, a graduation and centre our geopark partners and to be part Chan Kai-shing, head of the Ap Chau reopening ceremony was held on of this local engagement effort." village. 31 October. Officiating guests at the Hong Kong UNESCO Global To assist the trade and local ceremony included Mr Wong Kam- Geopark, China communities in providing better services and to generate socio- economic benefits, HKUGGp continues to play a role in the development of skills that enhance the capacity of businesses and local communities to deliver a high-quality visitor experience. In this regard, Dr. Marie L. Frey and Dr. Helga Chulepin, members of the Global Geoparks Network and the UNESCO Global Geoparks Council, were invited to meet our geopark partners and representatives of the communities Graduation ceremony of capacity building programme and Tai Po Geoheritage Centre and to deliver sharing sessions to the reopening ceremony at Sam Mun Tsai Village

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Geotourism on the Oki Islands Oki Islands UNESCO Global Geopark, Japan Candle Rock Sightseeing Boat

The Oki Islands UNESCO Global located off the coast of Dōgo Island. It nature and scenery here in sustainable Geopark is made up of isolated islands is an example of a geological landform geotourism activities, it is important to and islets located in the Sea of Japan, found in eroded coastlines called a sea maintain practices of environmental which lies between the Japanese stack. If you view Candle Island from protection and conservation. For this Archipelago and the eastern side of the the sightseeing boat as the sunset to be possible, we must also continue Eurasian continent. Being surrounded cascades down over it, it almost looks the initiatives to educate the residents by the sea, bordering sea area is like a candle being lit. Many visitors of the geopark. At our geopark, we also included in the territory of the come just to glimpse this moment. provide environmental education that geopark. One of the highlights of the With sea kayaks, you can enjoy views utilizes the nature and scenery found Oki Islands UNESCO Global Geopark of sea cliffs and plants that can only in the geopark through conducting is the landscape created by the erosion be seen from the sea. At our geopark, workshops and classes designed with that takes place where the sea meets children and the elderly are welcome the interests of local residents. Some land. We use the natural scenery of to participate in kayaking; kayaking is sections of the geopark are designated these eroded landscapes to promote not only used in tourism, but also in areas of the Daisen-Oki National geotourism. geopark education for local residents. Park, so many of these initiatives are In the coastal area we have “Kuniga Additionally, through combining sea carried out in cooperation with national Coast Hiking Track”. The track starts kayaking with beach cleaning activities, government institutions. from Matengai Cliff, one of the largest we are able to spread more awareness sea-eroded cliffs in Japan, which about environmental conservation in Oki Islands UNESCO Global boasts a height of 257 meters, and is the geopark. Geopark Promotion Committee located on Nishinoshima Island. Strong In order to continue utilizing the [email protected] seasonal winds and waves shaped the cliff’s steep walls. A 1.8 km walking path begins from the top of the cliff; along the path you can enjoy pleasant scenery of grazing horses and cows as well as the breath-taking views created by the nature here. If you venture all the way down to the bottom, you can also see Tsūtenkyō Arch and other wind and sea eroded rocks. In the sea area we have the Rōsoku- jima (Candle Island) Sightseeing Boat Sea Kayaking (photo credit to Club Noah) and sea kayaking. Candle Island is 18 GGN NEWSLETTER 2017 ISSUE 3 Geo Tourism

onnecting Geoheritage and Society at the Comarca Minera UNESCO C Global Geopark, Mexico

Barranca de Metztitlán Biosphere Reserve at sunset (Photo by Iván Razo)

Comarca Minera UNESCO Global Geopark, Mexico

Just about 100 km north of Mexico UNESCO Global Geopark. Comarca Minera hosts the world- City —one of the most populated in Mexico is a country of outstanding class Pachuca-Real del Monte silver the Americas, with about 20 million natural and cultural diversity. At mining district, whose fame started in people— encompassing remarkably Comarca Minera we demonstrate the XVI Century, under the Spanish well-preserved subtropical coniferous that, besides good gastronomy, Colonial rule. However, mining forests (El Chico National Park) charming villages and an excellent activity dates back to pre-Columbian and xeric shrublands (Barranca hospitality, geology is the perfect times, when the Aztecs extracted de Metztitlán Biosphere Reserve), way for approaching this Latin green and shine obsidian from the the geological framework of the American country. Mineral deposits Cerro de Las Navajas (“Hill of Knifes” Comarca Minera Geopark points to and historical mining provided a in Spanish) and exported it all across an unsurpassed mineral richness that kaleidoscope of features worth being the Mesoamerica. This leads us to gives to science more questions than seen in many Mexican cities and an important lesson: mineral veins answers. The contrast among the lush those of Comarca Minera are on the and obsidian deposits that originally forests and quiet, scenic landscapes exception. Pachuca, the largest city gave to this region a strategic role with the convulsive volcanic past has in Comarca Minera, pioneered the for economy and military power are a huge potential to engage settlers worldwide successful method for now a resource for geoeducation and and visitors with the valorization mineral processing —the mercury geotourism. and conservation of an outstanding amalgamation method for extracting But how to deal with one of the geoheritage at this recently endorsed silver and gold from the ores. As well, most populated geoparks in the

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world? Comarca Minera has around 500 thousand inhabitants. This is probably our biggest challenge and finding appropriate strategies for communication and geoeducation are our greatest goals. Linked with the regional Tourism Secretary of Hidalgo State and the National Autonomous University of Mexico — one of the largest and best-ranked in Latin America—, the Comarca Minera Geopark has a strong scientific, technical and logistics team that works in these lines. Furthermore, in May, 2017, the Columnar basalts of Huasca de Ocampo (Photo by Tourism Secretary of Hidalgo State) new Geopark Network of Latin America and the Caribbean was in Uruguay; Mixteca Alta, in Oaxaca, picturesque towns: Mineral del Chico. founded, thus starting a new southern Mexico; and Comarca There, our guests will participate in connection among territories and Minera, in Hidalgo, central Mexico. In discussion groups, field visits, and people around geoheritage. Four this respect, a first meeting is to be future planning. This unprecedented territories compose this network: held from 21 to 25th January, 2018 event gives the perfect opportunity Araripe, in Brazil; Grutas del Palacio, at one of Comarca Minera's most to continue connecting people with geoheritage and bringing ideas that Real del Monte mining workings (Photo foster responsibility towards nature. by Tourism Secretary of Hidalgo State) So, come and take a visit at this Mexican geopark and experience the geology of ore deposits, volcanism and ancient mining!

Miguel A. Cruz-Pérez Instituto de Geofísica Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México Del. Coyoacán, 04510 México City, Mexico [email protected] Carles Canet Centro de Ciencias de la Atmósfera Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México Del. Coyoacán, 04510 México City, Mexico [email protected] Erika Salgado Oficina de Vinculación Institucional Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México Del. Coyoacán, 04510 México City, Mexico [email protected]

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Huanggang Dabieshan Geopark Museum Huanggang Dabieshan Geopark Museum ——the Paradise of Geoscience Popularization

Huanggang Dabieshan Global Geopark, China

With a total investment of more The theme of Huanggang Little Dr. Geology (a DIY workshop than 70 million RMB and a total Dabieshan Geopark Museum for children) and Multi-functional Hall. construction area of 4,100 square is “orogenic belt”. It is a natural The entire exhibition well reflects meters, Huanggang Dabieshan laboratory displaying the early the characteristics of Huanggang Geopark Museum is a significant evolution history of the earth and Dabieshan. By skillfully using multi- ancillary facility of Huanggang the orogenic belt geology. It consists touch, OLED, VR/AR and other Dabieshan Geopark. Built in 2009 of eight exhibition halls, which are technical means to help people and after eight years of continuous Story of the Earth, Backbone of understand some abstruse geological improvement and updating, this China, Majestic Dabie Mountains, knowledge, the Museum not only Museum became a branch museum Ecological Garden of Dabie enhances the interaction, but also of Geological Museum of China on Mountains, Hall of Fame, Geological improves the viewing experience. July 15th, 2017. Specimen Exhibition Hall, I am a It is a museum as well as an active

21 GGN NEWSLETTER 2017 ISSUE 3 Geological Specimen Exhibition Hall

Museum systematically displays Huanggang Dabieshan Geopark the knowledge of earth science, Museum has always been improving as well as the rich geological the scientific quality of public and relics, ecological resources and serving young people as its duties. human history of Huanggang It focuses on better playing the role Paleontological fossils-yellow river stegodon Dabieshan. At the same time, it of geoscience research base and vigorously promotes the concept of geoscience education base. laboratory where people can become sustainable development and green engaged in science. development. It is a modern and Liu Fang Huanggang Dabieshan Geopark intelligent museum integrating vivid Huanggang Dabieshan Geopark Museum develops and operates geoscience education experience, [email protected] various educational activities for all humanized functional zoning and ages to spread geological knowledge. advanced exhibition technology. It aims to reconnect human society at all levels with the planet we live and to tell us how our planet and its 4,600 million years long history have shaped every aspect of our lives and our societies. Now, the daily average number of visits has reached more than 200, with a peak of more than 1,200. So far it has become an important popular science place for undergraduates, primary and secondary students in Huanggang City and even in Hubei Province. It is also an important platform for cultural exchange and cooperation of Huanggang City. Huanggang Dabieshan Geopark Students from Huanggang Xiaolongren Kindergarten

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Sant’Otiero Geological Site

Madonie UNESCO Global Geopark, Italy

The primary interest of the site is stratigraphic, paleontological and geo-anthropological. The site is the most important testimony of the presence of Ladinian in Sicily, being a well-established, continuous succession with the presence of important bio-stratigraphic indicators such as Daonella tyrolensis (Upper Ladinian). To this you have to add the findings to conodonta, which characterize the lower part of Ladinian (Triassic middle upper). Sant’Otiero geological site is also naturalistic and historical interest. In the immediate vicinity of the site, there are rocky outcrops from which the columns that were served in the Rocca di Sant’Otiero (Photo by di Stefano Piazza) construction of the Moster Church of of the rock, which are scattered in the broken during processing. Petralia Sottana, a village of Madonie vicinity, where one of these columns Institution of Madonie Park Park, the remains of quarry action is left in place probably because it is [email protected] are still present in both the north face

Rocca di Sant’Otiero (www.parks.it) Lumachella column in Sant’Otiero site (www. settimanadellaterra.org)

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lementary School Exchange Program E and Experience Tongari Program in Mt. Apoi Geopark

Mt. Apoi UNESCO Global Geopark, Japan

After participating in the elementary school exchange chance to spend time together with the local children. program last year, Toya Caldera and Usu Volcano In order to allow others to enjoy the geoparks, Mt. Apoi UNESCO Global Geopark participated in the program Geopark is holding a variety of tours. Samani Town, in again. This year, in addition to the two UNESCO Global collaboration with four neighboring towns, is organizing a Geoparks in Hokkaido, there are three other Japanese project titled “Tongari Road.” In the beginning of this fiscal Geoparks that students planned to visit in order to year, we are promoting the “Experience Tongari Program” experience a wider array of geoparks. In this August, the pamphlet that encourages visitors to climb Mt. Apoi and students visited Samani Town. visit various Geosites. In the end, students were only able to visit a single This program combines each town’s individual tourism region’s Geopark, however, 28 students from three sites and available experiences in the “Experience separate regions gathered at Mt. Apoi for the exchange. Tongari Program” pamphlet, with the intent to increase Some students participated in the exchange program for the overall regional appeal. With this program we are able both last and this year. On the first day the students split to advertise to more people who may not be familiar with into five groups, then searched for the 17 main Geosites the Mt. Apoi Geopark, fulfill a wider domestic and foreign and learned about their special characteristics. Students advertising that was previously unattainable, and increase participated in a quiz related to the first 10 Geosites, the sustainable tourism of the Mt. Apoi Geopark. which deepened their knowledge of the Mt. Apoi Geopark. Hiroaki Takanishi The students also participated in various activities such Mt. Apoi Geopark Promotion Council as Rock Caruta (the same as the previous year), visited 1-21 Odori Samani-cho Hokkaido, 058-8501, Japan the Visitor Center, and made keychains. They also had [email protected]

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Jeju Island Geopark Interpreter Bearing a Torch for the 2018 Winter Olympics

Jeju Island UNESCO Global Geopark, Korea

The Winter Olympics will be held in interpreter, Yong Ha Kim. Pyeongchang, Korea from February According to Kim, he had 9 to 25, 2018. This is the first Winter cold feet at first but was Olympics held in Korea over the overjoyed to be part of this past 30 years since the 1988 Seoul great adventure. Olympics. A few days after completing A symbol of the 2018 Winter the torch relay, Kim was Olympics, the Olympic torch, was guiding a foreigner along lit in Athens, Greece on October the coast called Jusangjeolli 24, 2017. Traveling to major Greek Cliff explaining the geological sites for a week, the flame finally features of the imposing stone 2018 Winter Olympics torch relay flew in Korea 100 days ahead of pillars. When asked several questions the Olympics. Directly moved from about the nature in Jeju Island, Kim sign his name in the visitors’ book. Incheon to Jeju Island, the torch tried to answer all those questions He replied, "I am Fraser Stoddart, continued its journey on the island, with his basic conversational English the Nobel Prize winner." Kim could transferring from one torchbearer to ability. After exploring a breathtaking feel his heart pounding in his chest another. Among the torchbearers in view of the ocean surrounding the as it did at the Olympic Torch Relay. this relay was a Jeju Island Geopark pillars, he was kindly requested to Hardly did he conceal his joy to see the Nobel Prize winner for the first time. They took a picture together and Sir James Fraser Stoddart wrote, “This is a beautiful natural place where that reminds me of The Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland. Excellent! Two to four Geopark interpreters welcome visitors and serve as a free of charge guide every day at the representative attractions of Jeju Island Geopark. These interpreters help and support visitors with all their hearts, whether or not they have received the Nobel Prize.

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“Haría Extreme Lanzarote” A Running Competition Across Lanzarote and Chinijo Islands UNESCO Global Geopark

Lanzarote and Chinijo Islands UGGp, Spain

The 7th edition of the sport running Lanzarote" is a mountain race that municipality of Haría but this year has ultramarathon by mountain called takes place in 90% of paths and dirt signed a collaboration agreement "Haría Extreme Lanzarote" took roads across Lanzarote and Chinijo with the Lanzarote and Chinijo place from 16 to 19 November 2017. Islands Geopark where participants Islands UNESCO Global Geopark After six previous editions, it has need to demonstrate their sporting and fruit of this collaboration will have established itself as an indisputable qualities in areas of different a race with the name of the geopark, mark in the regional and national technical difficulty. It is developed in the "GEOPARQUE STARTER" race, panorama. The previous editions several scoring modalities for several with a journey of ten kilometers that have been recognized internationally competitions: Ultramarathon (94 will take the runner to the highest for their good organization, the paths kms), Marathon (44 kms), Medium point of Lanzarote, lining crests and characterized by its demand and the (23 kms) and Starter (10 kms). In parts of the Risco de Famara that spectacular nature of its landscapes. addition the younger ones will also brighten the view and leave the legs The Haría Extreme combines: have their place in the competition satisfied and the effort made. The rural development, environment, called "Kids Extreme" with a course race is suitable for the fastest hikers tourism and sport. Four basic pillars that varies between 800 meters and and walkers who want to enjoy the to continue constructing the dream 3 kms. To Complement the sports surprising and intoxicating beauty of of creating an event related to its competitions, a wide program of the Haría Extreme Lanzarote. organizational seriousness and different events during the weekend Elena Mateo Mederos the use of resources offered by a including: talks, concerts, fairs, and Clara Bonilla Cabrera town as unique as Haría and in an exhibitions, workshops, etc. will be Lanzarote and Chinijo Islands UGGp emblematic island for sports such as developed. [email protected] Lanzarote. The sports event "Haría Extreme Susana Gómez Castiñeira The race "Haría Extreme Lanzarote" is organized by the www.hariaextreme.com

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he Dong Van Karst Plateau UNESCO T Global Geopark held several activities in response to the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development of the United Nations

Dong Van Karst Plateau UNESCO Global Geopark, Vietnam

In order to respond to the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development of the United Nations funded by the gold sponsor – the Global Geopark Network (GGN), the Dong Van karst plateau UNESCO Global Geopark (Dong Van Geopark) organized several activities during the third Buckwheat Flower Festival in 2017.

* A Culture – Tourism Space Delegates attending the opening ceremony of the third Buckwheat Flower Festival and An Exhibition of Ha Giang products were held in Hanoi from promote and introduce the image Geopark of Krong No, the Non Nuoc 27th to 29th October, 2017 with of Ha Giang land and people Geopark of Cao Bang province, many typical activities such as to domestic and international the Ly Son Geopark of Quang performing folk songs and pan- visitors. Ngai province and some from pine dances of the Mong ethnic Ninh Binh, Hoa Binh and Lai Chau group, new crop celebration of * The 2017 Geopark Fair was provinces. The orgainzation of the Giay ethnic group and “cap sac” held from 23-26 November at Dong fair aimed at creating an opportunity ritual of Dao people. In addition, Van geopark with the participation of for all Geoparks of Viet Nam and visitors not only could take part in many delegates from the Volcanic some neighboring provinces to the folk games such as: tug of war, “con” jugglery or peng-top playing but also enjoyed an exhibition of artwork photos depicting the land and people of Ha Giang and tasted some traditional cuisines of the local people such as triangular cakes, seedless persimmons and Shan Tuyet Tea as well. Ha Giang Culture-Tourism Space at Ha Noi Delegates visiting some pavilions at The program was held in order to the 2017 Geopark Fair

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introduce their typical geological and cultural heritages, exchange and learn experiences in building and developing geoparks from each others.

* Music Concert “Lung Cu sound” was held on November Music performance at the opening ceremony Paragliding Performance on the season of 25th at the foot of Lung Cu National of the third Buckwheat Flower Festival Buckwheat Flower Festival Flagpole. With the theme of singing the praise of love for the country and a great number of athletes, local feelings of tourists to Ha Giang, the * A Paragliding Program during people and visitors to visit, discover Music Festival helped create a very the season of Buckwheat Flower and experience. Thanks to the special tourism product associated Festival was held for two days from success of this program, it is hoped with the site of Lung Cu Flagpole and December 2nd to 3rd at Dong Van that unique tourism products will be the local people can keep holding Geopark. This is a special event that designed to promote and introduce this kind of music festival daily and created a strong point of Ha Giang the majestic beauties of Dong Van weekly to attract tourists. tourism this year and helped attract Geopark worldwide.

A Series of Science Popularization Activities by Jingpohu Global Geopark

Jingpohu UNESCO Global Geopark, China

In order to strengthen the protection, construction, environmental protection among university students. From scientific research and science popularization of Jingpohu October 27th to November 3rd, 2017, Jingpohu Global Global Geopark, we promote the combination of theory Geopark Management Committee carried out a series of and practice and enhance awareness of geosciences and science popularization activities with the theme “Protecting

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the Earth starts from us” for a week in the Arts & Sports of tourism and the protection of the geological relics of Building of Mudanjiang Normal University. Jingpohu Global Geopark. The lectures were well received by the teachers and students of the Mudanjiang Normal 1.Construction of practical training University and the management staff of Jingpohu Global base jointly by Jingpohu Global Geopark Geopark since they are able to understand the knowledge and Mudanjiang Normal University of geosciences, the concept of geological tourism and the On October 26th, 2017, in the concert hall of method of scientific protection of geological relics. Mudanjiang Normal University, Jingpohu Global Geopark and Mudanjiang Normal University jointly held the signing 3.A series of science popularization ceremony for “Practical Training Base of Jingpohu activities Global Geopark in Mudanjiang Normal University”, and In the hall of Arts & Sports Building of Mudanjiang representatives of the two sides signed the “Agreement Normal University, nine boards for science popularization on Practical Training Base of Jingpohu Global Geopark in on exhibition displayed the understanding of the Earth, Mudanjiang Normal University”. the formation of volcanoes, the lava landforms, the Jingpohu. Visitors signed on the signature wall “Protecting 2.Lectures on science popularization the Earth starts from us”. Moreover, the staff of Jingpohu Prof. Li Jiangfeng from China University of Global Geopark Management Committee and the student Geosciences (Wuhan) gave a lecture entitled “Volcano volunteers also distributed more than 1000 brochures World of Jingpohu”. Prof. Zhou Xuewu made a special for science popularization and disaster prevention and report entitled "Geology and Geomorphology: Tourism mitigation. “Jingpo Lake Volcano Geological Museum” , Resources". Prof. Li Jiangfeng and Prof. Zhou Xuewu “Geological Mineral Specimens Museum” and “History and introduced the evolution process of Jingpohu Global Culture Museum” have been convenced in Mudanjiang Geopark in the context of volcanic geology and Normal University. Professors in China University of geomorphology from the Wilson Geosciences (Wuhan) are specially invited to provide cycle, the theory of commentary. The Museums receives continuous stream continental drift, global of teachers and students. volcano belts and This activity has raised students’ interest in and other aspects, and awareness of geological and geographical knowledge. laid emphasis on Moreover, it advocates the learning and life concept research, the value of "science, environmental protection, civilization and innovation" to teachers and students, and guides the students to set up the consciousness of "loving home, protecting the ecological environment of tourism and realizing sustainable development".

Fu Chonghua & Liu Zhansen Jingpohu Global Geopark Managment Committee [email protected]

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Lecture on Geopark Development A and Science Popularization Given to Volunteers

Zhangjiajie UNESCO Global Geopark, China

Prof. HUANG He-qing is giving a lecture A volunteer is asking a question

On November 26th, Prof. HUANG how to make self-improvement and in Zhangjiajie UNESCO Global He-qing, a geomorphologist and how to do science popularization for Geopark. As demonstrated in Director of the Joint Research Center people of different levels and circles. many circumstances, electing for Zhangjiajie Geomorphology, gave All volunteers are excellent volunteers from college students not a lecture on science popularization college students with different only inherits the excellent spirit of of Zhangjiajie landforms under majors, who have great interests volunteers, but also helps to promote the invitation of the Administrative in geoparks, eco-environmental science popularization in Zhangjiajie Committee of Zhangjiajie UNESCO protection and public activities. They UNESCO Global Geopark. Global Geopark. Forty volunteers have been an effective force on from Jishou University and strengthening science popularization Zhangjiajie City Museum attended the lecture. Prof. Huang firstly introduced the development of Global Geoparks Network and then introduced the characteristics and formative mechanisms of Zhangjiaije Landforms as well as the differences between Zhangjiajie Landforms and other commonly seen landforms in details. All volunteers listened carefully and raised questions actively. Prof. Huang answered all the questions and meanwhile elaborated Group photo

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EARTHQUAKE OF SOUTH LESVOS 12/6/2017 (M=6.3M ) esvos Island UNESCO Global Geopark LShare Experience in Earthquake Disaster Contribution to Education of the Children and Monitoring of Seismic Activity

Lesvos Island UNESCO Global Geopark, Greece

A powerful earthquake struck Meet the Earthquakes" and managed table, which simulates seismic motion the island of Lesvos on 12 June to evacuate safely the building after and educates students about how to 2017. The earthquake hits with 6.3 the earthquake. react in the event of an earthquake magnitudes on the Richter scale. The aim of the educational and prevent panic emotions. The village of Vrisa, in south program "Natural processes on our The Natural History Museum Lesvos, is devastated and hundreds planet - Understanding earthquakes" of Lesvos Petrified Forest also of inhabitants are homeless. The is to raise awareness, to educate the has a new seismic station (SIGR) earthquake left behind a 43-year-old students about the prevention and connected with the National woman dead when the roof of her treatment of seismic risk and their Seismological Network which records home collapsed, 15 people injured familiarization with the protection seismic events. At its premises, and huge material damage. 70% of measures before, during and after in collaboration with the Institute the houses have collapsed or half- from an earthquake. Its innovations of Technical Seismology and collapsed and these houses still are the use of the Museum's seismic Earthquake Engineering of OASP standing show signs that they will have to be demolished. Vrisa, the village with 850 habitants, has been evacuated. Residents moved in relatives’ homes, in summer houses and in tents in neighboring villages, or in their cars.

At the time of the earthquake at the Patrick Mc Keever, Setsuya Nakada, Primary School of Vrisa students and Nickolas Zouros_Vrisa Lesvos their teacher were in the school. The school collapsed, but the students and teacher applied the protection measures they had been trained for at the Natural History Museum of the Lesvos Petrified Forest, participating in the educational program "Natural Processes on our Planet - Come to Vrisa Lesvos Educational programme-Simulation of the seismic motion 31 GGN NEWSLETTER 2017 ISSUE 3 Geo-Education

(ITSAK / OASP), a new accelerator Petrified Forest helps to inform in order to monitor casualties and has also been installed, which also and prepare for avoiding panic and support the local community by contributes to better monitoring of correct reaction of people in case of accurate scientific information. seismic activity. a strong earthquake that will prevent Lesvos UNESCO Global Geopark At the same time, in collaboration any negative impact of earthquakes carried out a variety of initiatives to with the Department of Geography within the area. raise awareness and educate the of University of Aegean and the Prof. Patrick Mc Keever, head people and especially young people Department of Geology of Aristotle of UNESCO Earthsciences and to deal with natural disasters and University of Thessaloniki, in recent Disaster Risk Redaction Section, reduce their impacts. The Natural years, the Museum carried out major and Prof. Setsuya Nakada from the History Museum of the Petrified research projects to monitor seismic Earthquake Research Institute of the Forest with the organization of the activity and address seismic risk in University of Tokyo, accompanied International Intensive Course on the northeastern Aegean islands. by Professor Nikos Zouros from Geoparks 2018 and the presence of Although the earthquake activity University of Aegean, President of Geopark experts all over the globe of Lesvos has created a great deal the Global Geoparks Network who highlights the contribution of the of concern for the inhabitants of were in Lesvos on the occasion of UNESCO Global Geoparks as open the island, continuous education of the 9th International Intensive Course classes to support local communities the students and citizens of Lesvos on Geoparks 2018 entitled "UNESCO to mitigate the consequences of and continuous monitoring of the Global Geoparks and Geotourism natural disasters. geodynamic processes by the Natural Development”, visited Vrisa village Nickolas Zouros History Museum of the Lesvos immediately after the Earthquake

Amateur Astronomers Gathered for Star Party at Danxiashan UGGp Danxiashan UNESCO Global Geopark, China

From December 16th to 17th, 2017, over a hundred astronomy enthusiasts and photographers gathered in Danxia, participated in the Second Guangdong Star Party, and shared same astonishing view of the night starry sky over Danxia. This event is hosted by the Danxiashan Administrative committee, organized by Guangdong Province Star Roaming Astronomical Association and dozens of astronomy enthusiasts organizations inside and outside of the

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province participated in this party. Mr. Liang Hongjia, an official from the Star Roaming Astronomical Association began to use Danxiashan as a base for astronomical observation in August, selected the best observation site regarding to Danxiashan landscape, and accurately estimated the weather condition to ensure this year’s star party proceed smoothly. Many experts in the field of astronomy photography and science enthusiasts inside and outside of themselves in night photography. population participated in this event, the province gathered together Photography viewpoint especially including Mr. Xie Renjiang, chief where Mrs. Tang Junlin shared her excited people in the field, numerous editor of Bootes Astronomy Forum; knowledge about field photography marvellous astronomy photography Ms. Tang Junlin, reporter of China under the star; Mr. Xie Renjiang are born in Danxiashan. Meteorological News, member shared his experience of astronomy As a Globle Geopark, Danxiashan of Fujian Xingye Photography photography and astronomy tours is rich in natural and humanity Club; Mr. He Jianguo, president of self-driving oversea; Mr. Wei Guo resources. Rely on the Danxia’s of Guangdong Southern Cross from Southern Cross Society hold an abundant resources, Danxiashan Society; Mr. Luo Zhenyv, director of astronomy class themed “discover nature school already established Guangzhou Astronomy Enthusiasts the sky” for those who attended the classes that covers fields like Society; Mr. Liang Hongjia, president event that night and local families and geography, zoology, humanity of Guangdong Star Roaming gave them a deeper understanding of and astronomy. Using practice Astronomical Association. the universe. techniques such as lecture, outdoor Mr. Xie Renjiang said: "I’ve seen After sharing interesting lectures, explorationand experiments, we a lot of old friends in this event, and star observation and photography are pushing forward on building many new faces too. I hope in the in the field pushed this event to a wellknown scientific mountain. We future there will be more people crescendo. Strong cold air blew welcome science popularization joining us. I will also devote myself the thick cloud over the night sky, organizations and individuals to join to promoting development of the and the stars were shining brightly, us on our journey. astronomy scientific popularization. which aroused enthusiasm of the Yu Dongliang & Zhao Wenxuan In this year’s star party, astronomy star enthusiasts, thus they lost Danxiashan UGGp

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A Miniature Village —the Project “Petralilium in Praesepio”

Madonie UNESCO Global Geopark, Italy

In the Madonie Park, an ancient handed down as the blacksmith, the past for the memory of the future in a village at 1,100 m, a group of young carpenter, the shoemaker. Religious territory made by small communities people from 1998 with great artistic project, Artistic for its realistic of the Madonie Park. and craftmanship every year in scenography of environments, Institution of Madonie Park December represent "Il Presepe", the Anthropological as Journey into the [email protected] representation of the birth of Jesus in a scenic and realistic miniature setting of the ancient village. The event reflects the context of the local civil society and of the history of this territory. Inside a 1500's church, the artists faithfully reproduce the glimpses and monuments existing. The reconstruction of ancient environments to revive the past eras, the realistic reproduction of ancient crafts now disappeared and no longer miniature of old crafts

miniature of the historical center miniature of the main square

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ShennongjiaShennongjia UGGp’s Promotion Aims to Boost Local Economy

Shennongjia UNESCO Global Geopark, China

To enhance the marketing of sustainable tourism and boost the local economy, Shennongjia UNESCO Global Geopark sent a geo- and eco-tourism promotion team to Taiwan, China on July 5th – 11th, 2017, expecting to further expand the market in Taiwan. The team held two promotion meetings respectively in Taipei and Kaohsiung, which were the first independent tourism promotion campaigns outside the mainland China. Representatives from over 160 tourism companies, over 10 airlines tourism development". and development prospect of geo- and more than 10 media agencies Hsu Youngche, Chairman of and eco-tourism, major scenic sites, were invited to the promotion Travel Agent Association of Taiwan preferential polices for tourists from meetings. spoke highly of the achievements Taiwan, and outdoor sports activities Wang Changbin, Vice Mayor of made by the tourism businesses of and important international sports Shennongjia said in the campaign:" Shennongjia and Taiwan in respect of events, etc. Both sides made detailed the wonderful geo-heritage, bio- mutual exchanges. He said that both communication on tourism product diversity and culture are the most Shennongjia and Taiwan had rich development, marketing, service valuable geo- and eco-tourism tourism resources and good tourism management and cooperation. On the resources of Shennongjia UGGp; with infrastructure and the differences site Shennongjia signed cooperation multiple international and national between the two places in landscape agreements with Castle Tours and designations such as UNESCO and scenery meant great potential for Flying Tour. Global Geopark, World Heritage, future cooperation. This promotion It is estimated that in 2017 the MAB Reserve and Ramsar Site, etc., campaign in Taiwan, as a new start number of tourists from Taiwan to Shennongjia enjoys high reputation for further cooperation between Shennongjia will be three times bigger around the world; Shennongjia Taiwan and Shennongjia in tourism than the number in 2016. Taiwan will attaches great importance to the development, will play a positive role bring new growth to Shennongjia’s strategic cooperation with the tourism in enhancing the friendship between tourism income, which will significantly agencies in Taiwan, and will create the two sides. boost the local economy. a favorable environment and build a At the promotion meetings Chen Jinxin, Wang Zhixian win-win platform to realize in-depth representatives from Shennongjia Shennongjia UNESCO Global Geopark cooperation between the two sides in UGGp introduced its strategic plan [email protected]

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2016 Tianzhushan International Mountainous Cross-country Challenge took by Wang Lixin “Sports & Tourism” Boost the Green Development

Tianzhushan UNESCO Global Geopark, China

From Oct. 28 to Oct. 30, 2017, activity. More than 5,500 athletes from the match: “It’s really an excellent the Tianzhushan International River- 17 countries and regions took part experience that I could enjoy the tracing Cross-country Challenge & in the competition. The 50 km-long picturesque scenery of Tianzhushan National Skyrunning Championship racing track which climbed 1,700m in while I was running”. was held in Tianzhushan UNESCO total passed through bamboo forests, The magnificent geomorphologic Global Geopark, comprised of three streams, waterfalls and other natural landscape, favorable eco-environment sporting events: 50 km-long river- landscapes, and became a splendid and profound culture make up the tracing cross-country challenge, 22 racing track featured by majesty, rarity, wonderful resources for outdoor sports km-long river-tracing cross-country oddness and elegance. Player Yao and geotourism of Tianzhushan, challenge and 6 km-long mass fitness Miao couldn’t help exclaiming after which becomes a paradise to outdoor

Bicycle Challenge (by Lin Qiansheng) 2017 Tianzhushan International River-tracing Cross-country Challenge

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sports amateurs. From Sep. 15 to base, and successively held series of transportation of Tianzhushan Sep. 17, 2017 China ·Tianzhushan competitions on tennis, rock-climbing, UNESCO Global Geoaprk. In the International Long Board Downhill mountaineering and cross-country, coming five years, high-level cross- Competition was also held in the etc. In 2017, Tianzhushan successfully country competitions will be held geopark and 97 players from USA, held a tourism festival and forum on successively in Tianzhushan, Canada, Spain, Australia and China the health preservation, and promoted which will be forged into a national attended to show the fast and furious Tianzhushan Health Preservation demonstrative site for outdoor of Long Board Downhill, attracting Culture in Russia. Tianzhushan Health mountaineering industry. more than 200 foreign and domestic Preservation Kung Fu is deeply favored The deep integrative development long board hardcore gamers to enjoy by Russian tourists and attracts many of “Sports & Tourism” presents the happiness brought by the natural Russian guests to go sightseeing, the beauty of sports and nature, landscape and extreme sports. take holidays and enjoy the health disseminates the concept of harmony In the past years, Tianzhushan preservation in Tianzhushan. between man and nature, promotes Geopark has made efforts to create The geopark strengthens the conservation of the geo- “sports & tourism” compound cooperation with relevant environment and the extensive mass products relying on the favorable departments. On Oct. 28, the local fitness programs, upgrades residents’ eco-environment, promote the deep government and mountaineering happiness index, and enhances the Boost the Green Development integration of tourism and sports, and management center of SSAC signed visibility and influence of Tianzhushan continuously improve the infrastructure a strategic cooperation agreement, UNESCO Global Geoaprk, which and service of sports and tourism. which combines professional boost the vigorous development of Tianzhushan successively established resources of the mountaineering green economy and achieve favorable health preservation base, rock- management center of SSAC and comprehensive benefits. climbing and drifting base, cross- abundant outdoors resources, Yu Guosheng country base and vehicle camping cultural resources and convenient [email protected]

2017 Tianzhushan International Long Board Downhill Competition (by Wang Lixin)

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Terras de Cavaleiros UNESCO Global Geopark

Terras de Cavaleiros UNESCO Global Geopark, Portugal

The Terras de Cavaleiros UNESCO Global Geopark is located in the north interior of Portugal. An incredible territory, with approximately 700km2, which coincides with the limits of the municipality of Macedo de Cavaleiros and has been recognized by the European and Global Geoparks Network since September 2014, it is a member of the "International Geosciences and Geoparks Programme of UNESCO". A territory where the essence and serenity of the northeast of Portugal combine, and whose breath-taking landscapes; the vestiges of the multiple and unique geological phenomena, which allow us to travel to the interior of the Earth through a more than 500 million years old history; its biodiversity; the regional multiple schools that choose this territory to carry gastronomy and also its people’s art of welcoming are out the Educational Programmes that the Terras de truly inspiring. Cavaleiros UNESCO Global Geopark develops. For the The territory of this UNESCO Global Geopark offers 2017/2018 academic year, the GTC proposes a set of 180km of walking routes, a Biodiversity Station and 20 Educational Programmes designed to meet every also a 110km Geological Route. It is here that you can single level of education and which includes different also find one of the 7 Wonders - Beaches of Portugal, areas of knowledge, such as geology, biology, history Ribeira Beach, inserted in the Protected Landscape of and geography, among others. Programmes that are the Albufeira do Azibo (Azibo Dam), a place whose fauna articulated with the different curricular syllabi, from basic and flora translate into remarkable species simply worthy to secondary education, that enrich the learning process of this true natural sanctuary. In the territory of Terras in a playful way, and that tighten the relations between the de Cavaleiros UNESCO Global Geopark a geological territory, the local community, and all those who visit us. history that began more than 500 million years ago is EDUCATE TO PRESERVE is the premise of these well documented. This complex history is preserved in 42 educational proposals. Thus, geo-preservation and geosites and it is here, in one of these geosites, that you environmental education are two of its priorities, always have the opportunity to both set foot on an ancient ocean aiming at safeguarding the natural and historical and a foot on an ancient continent. heritages, fostering the progressive transformation of both youngsters and natives’ values, attitudes and behaviours. Learn more about Terras de Cavaleiros Geopark EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMMES! Educational Programmes in: A territory of education and science http://www.geoparkterrasdecavaleiros.com/pt-pt/ From northern to southern Portugal, there are content/programas-educativos

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of the examples of a tourist offer that provides unique experiences as far as natural and historical heritages, Terras de Cavaleiros gastronomy, and human relationships are concerned. These Programmes and Tourist Packages provide UNESCO Global Geopark the visitor with the opportunity to participate in social experiences that allow them to contact and be involved with the local community, in order to learn the arts and expertise of the people who inhabit the territory.The Terras de Cavaleiros UNESCO Global Geopark is a destination that offers, through its Programmes and Tour Packages, the possibility of enjoying the landscapes that are astonishing, of discovering extraordinary chromatic, textual and morphological diversities that seem to have Terras de Cavaleiros UNESCO Global no end and which enchant those who visit it. Geopark, a territory with unique and Macedo de Cavaleiros breathes history and tradition, differentiating experiences! as well as rich and natural values, which make it a land of future and kindness, and therefore compel those who visit

“Histories told by the rocks”, "Finding Treasures", to come back. " The Museum Route - Heritage Route of the Terras Alongside the landscape, geology, water, mountains, de Cavaleiros UNESCO Global Geopark" and “The gastronomy, heritage and hotels, the county still has Museum Route - Tastes and Wisdom of the Terras something else: people! People whose greatest joy is to de Cavaleiros UNESCO Global Geopark” are some once again see those who have already visited the territory.

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eotourism Infrastructures G in the Beigua UNESCO Global Geopark

Beigua UNESCO Global Geopark, Italy

A well-developed network of facilities has been realized in the Beigua UNESCO Global Geopark (in Italy) in order to support activities of interpretation and dissemination of the local geological, biological and cultural heritages but also to promote geotourism initiatives. Three Visitor Centres, three Info Points and one Educational Centre disseminate the most important topics about the Geopark’s territory, give tourists practical information about the activities which can be done, but also host educational activities and exhibitions. To be underlined that inside each Visitor Centres, a Geopark Corner has been set up in order to provide information on the UNESCO Global “Palazzo Gervino” Visitor Centre in Sassello Geoparks and the international Geoparks’ networks (GGN, APGN, LACGN, EGN). for the explanation of the field evidences of the geological evolution of the geopark’s territory during the Oligocene “Palazzo Gervino” Visitor Centre period, around 28-30 million years ago. The Tropical Sea This visitor centre is located in Sassello and is entirely and Corals sections host Oligocene fossil collections dedicated to the theme of Geoparks and Geodiversity. found in the area of Ponte Prina–Maddalena (Sassello) It consists of a ground floor and first floor dedicated to and allow the visitors to compare them with those living in the paleontological heritage of the territory of the Beigua a modern coral reef. Geopark. The main attraction of this visitor centre are the rests of the Antracotherium gastaldii (Squinabol, 1891), “Villa Bagnara” Visitor Centre an Artiodactyl mammal widespread in Europe, Asia, Located in Masone, includes permanent and temporary and probably Africa between the Eocene and Oligocene exhibitions, audio-visual hall and conference room. This periods (50-23 million years ago). This serves as “flag” Center is dedicated to the issue of traditional activities and

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“Bruno Bacoccoli” Info Point in Pratorotondo (Cogoleto) “Case Vaccà” Educational Centre in Arenzano typical products of the Beigua territory. The permanent reference in the coastal area for promoting the territory exhibition is composed of four different halls dedicated and its several tourism initiatives. It is also used to host to the Geopark area and his natural resources, the local conferences, interpretation activities and temporary products and the historical of the Geopark’s valleys. exhibitions.

“Alpicella” Visitor Centre “Banilla” Information Point This center is located in Alpicella (Varazze) and works This info point, located in Tiglieto, is dedicated mostly to as a permanent archeological exhibition with lithic and the wood and its characteristics, which are of importance bronze objects, ceramics and animal findings coming for both biodiversity conservation issues and sustainable from the surrounding areas, frequented by hunters and development of the local communities. At the same time, shepherds from the middle Neolithic to the Copper and it serves as a reference point for providing information on Bronze Ages. the different thematic trails in the Geopark’s area.

“Bruno Bacoccoli” Information Point “Vaccà” Educational Centre This info point is located in Pratorotondo (Cogoleto), This facility is located in Arenzano, inside the Special 1,100 m above sea level. It houses a collection of rocks Protection Area “Beigua-Turchino”, one of the most specimens and interpretation panels displaying the interesting areas for the migration of Birds of prey. The geological history of Beigua territory. During all the year Center is mainly dedicated to ornithological topics and the Info Center hosts educational programs and training linked to educational programs. It also hosts permanent courses. Outside the Info Center a “rocks garden” was temporary exhibitions, workshops and several activities of created; it contains different patterns of rocks belonging to scientific research. the ophiolitic area in Beigua Geopark. Maurizio Burlando “Palazzo Beato Iacopo” Information Point Director of Beigua UGG Housed in the prestigious Palazzo Beato Iacopo, in Member of the UGG Council the historical center of Varazze, the info point is a crucial

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Latest Research Tells the Best Angle The to Observe Geological Heritages

Muroto UNESCO Global Geopark, Japan

Muroto UNESCO Global Geopark held an exhibition colors of rock layers on the ground along the coast line in of Chikyu at Muroto Global Geopark Center (MGGC, Muroto UNESCO Global Geopark. This is because that hereafter) from November 2017 to the end of the year. on-land feature of layers we see today totally depend Chikyu (literally means the Earth in Japanese) which on the environment surrounding those accretionary is the drilling vessel specifically designed for scientific complexes under the sea. Now, the latest research results research, investigated the deep biosphere off Muroto made it much clearer to presume where, when, and how from September to November in 2016 and successfully each formations on-land was formed under the sea. detected microbial cells from layers down to the depth Dr. Tonai shared the best angle to observe each outcrop of 550 meters under the sea floor. It also collected core on the coast of Muroto. If we carefully look at rock body samples at maximum 1,180 meters below seafloor at from a certain angle and become more sensitive about the Nankai Trough, 120 km southeast of Cape Muroto. shape and the color of it, we will notice the landscape in As a main program of the exhibition, 3 researchers front of us on-land is a messenger what happened under were invited to give a lecture at MGGC. They are from the sea very long time ago. research institutions (Kochi University and Japan Agency Many geo-guides of Muroto Geopark of course attended for Marine-Earth Science and Technology) which have his lecture. What he shared was a helpful information for cooperated with Muroto Geopark for both conveying them to guide visitors at geo-sites in Muroto UNESCO scientific knowledge widely and doing research. Global Geopark. Visitors can experience more dynamic Approximately 100 people attended the lectures in total life of the Earth with deep information our guides will tell. and most of them were locals. In addition to such fantastic lectures, one-100th scale Dr. Satoshi Tonai, actually boarded Chikyu as a model of Chikyu, replica of geological samples, and geologist during the last mission mentioned above, several posters on results of the drilling mission were showed us a figure of core samples taken this time. also exhibited to deepen visitors’ understandings. Even According to him, it revealed an environment of the those who could not come to the lectures enjoyed the convergence zone at Nankai Trough where two tectonic exhibitions. plates meet; the oceanic plate dives under the continental Tsubasa Ogasawara plate. It is also the place where the very first foundation of Muroto UNESCO Global Geopark land was formed, called ‘accretionary complex.’ Assistant Coordinator of International Relations You can easily find that there are various shapes and [email protected]

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Leiqiong UNESCO Global Geopark Promoted the Sustainable Development of Shishan Town Tourism by Holding Special Activities

Leiqiong UNESCO Global Geopark, China

Shishan town agriculture tourism development of Shishan town. Global Geopark is a great creation carnival was held in Leiqiong One of the special activities is the of Shishan tourism resources and UNESCO Global Geopark in Haikou Farmers’ Market. The geopark invited the concentrated reflection of the on October 1, 2017, the first day of the farmers who live in the geopark region volcano folk culture. From georelics, National Day Holiday. During the time to sell their organic products and ecological square, ancient corridor to (October 1 to October 8) of agriculture provided them free sales platform village dishes, characteristic agriculture tourism carnival, Leiqiong UNESCO in the geopark. These activities and folk custom, all of these things Global Geopark attracted thousands increased the farmers’ income while represent the core value of Shishan of visitors by holding a series of providing high quality products to the town tourism resources, which improve activities, such as farmers’ market, tourists. From another point of view, sustainable development of the folk culture performance, geological it also improved the popularity and Shishan tourism industry. landscape tourism, characteristic reputation of the geopark. Chen kaili agriculture display, country food As an important business card to Leiqiong UNESCO Global Geopark culture experience and so on. the Haikou tourism, Leiqiong UNESCO [email protected] Through the agriculture tourism carnival, Leiqiong UNESCO Global Geopark integrated Shishan town’s ecotourism resources into a whole one to promote the development of the modes of “tourism+”, such as tourism+culture, tourism+popularization of science, tourism+agriculture and The entrance of the Agricultural Tourism Carnival Folk dance display shows the folk culture tourism+special food, etc. These kinds of mode boost the economic development by means of tourism development, which not only provided colorful activities to the visitors who visited our geopark, but also highlighted the tourism products of the volcano ecological tourism, Shishan characteristic products and special folk customs, so that more visitors can become the witnesses to the The tourists

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International Workshop on Cave Protection and Disaster Prevention2017 in Zhangjiajie UNESCO Global Geopark, China

Opening ceremony of the workshop

From 28th to 30th of November, Zhangjiajie Geomorphology, the Zhijindong Cave, Wangwushan- the “International Workshop on Cave Geopark Management Office of Daimeishan, Leye-fengshan, Protection and Disaster Prevention Zhangjiajie City, Zhangjiajie City Ningde, and Shennongjia UNESCO in 2017” was held in Zhangjiajie Museum, Zhangjiajie UNESCO Global Geoparks. UNESCO Global Geopark, aiming Global Geopark Museum and Prof. HUANG He-qing, the at identifying the approaches Huanglongdong Cave Tourism director of the Joint Research Center to the protection of Karst caves Investment CO., Ltd. for Zhangjiajie Geomorphology, and prevention of disasters. This More than 60 participants chaired the opening ceremony of workshop was hosted by the attended this workshop, including the workshop and presented an People’s Government of Wulingyuan internationally renowned experts on introduction of the organization of District of Zhangjiajie City and Karst caves and the representatives the workshop. Mr. LUO Zhibin, vice- the Administrative Committee of 10 sister geoparks of Zhangjiajie mayor of the People’s Government of Zhangjiajie UNESCO Global UNESCO Global Geopark, which are of Zhangjiajie City, Mr. HOU Tiefu, Geopark, and co-organized by English Riviera, Bohemian Paradise, vice-director of the Administrative the Joint Research Center for Lesvos Island, Jeju Island, Alax, Committee of Zhangjiajie UNESCO

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Mr LUO Zhibin, the vice-major of Zhangjiajie City, met the experts Signing ceremony of sister geopark agreement between Lesvos and the representatives of sister geoparks Island and Zhangjiajie UNESCO Global Geoparks

Global Geoaprk, Prof. Ibrahim through presenting keynote vegetation protection on the top Komoo, vice-president of Global reports and case discussions. of the cave, etc. In addition, all Geoparks Network Bureau, and Prof. After a detailed investigation of participants visited Zhangjiajie HE Qingcheng, vice-president of Huanglongdong Cave, a major Global Geopark Museum and the Chinese Academy of Geological geoheritage site in Zhangjiajie Tianzishan and Yuanjiajie geo- Sciences and the coordinator of UNESCO Global Geopark, the regions of Zhangjiajie UNESCO the Asia-Pacific Geoparks Network experts and representatives of Global Geopark. presented welcome addresses. sister geoparks provided valuable After the workshop, Lesvos Island During the workshop, the advices for Karst cave protection and Shennongjia UNESCO Global representatives of sister geoparks and disaster prevention, including Geoparks signed sister agreements shared their experience on systematical monitoring, use of cold with Zhangjiajie UNESCO Global global geoparks management lights, infrastructure construction, Geopark.

Group photo of the workshop

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raining Course on Using Space Technologies for UNESCO Global Geoparks T Convened in Beijing International Centre on Space Technologies for Natural and Cultural Heritage, Beijing, China

In partnership with the UNESCO “Space Technologies Assisting Global Geopark Network Office, Conservation of UNESCO Global the International Centre on Space Geoparks”. He briefed the trainees Technologies for Natural and Cultural on the initiative of the Course and Heritage (“HIST”) organized a Training the role of space technology in the Course on Using Space Technologies management of UNESCO Global for UNESCO Global Geoparks in Opening ceremony Geoparks. He expressed his wish Beijing during 23-24 November, that this Course be a facilitator to 2017. The Course was aimed to his address, Mr. Zheng thanked HIST collaboration between HIST, the promote better understanding of for organizing such a course and then UNESCO Global Geopark Network space technologies by managers introduced the characteristics and Office and the UNESCO Global of UNESCO Global Geoparks in nature of UNESCO Global Geoparks. Geoparks in China. China, hence application of space He pointed out that space technology During the two-day training course, technologies for the monitoring would undoubtedly become an the participants attended courses and management of the geoparks. important means for the management such as Characteristics and Practical 15 managers from Shennongjia, and sustainable development of Application of Remote Sensing Danxiashan, Xingwen and Huangshan the UNESCO Global Geoparks. He Technologies, System of Virtual UNESCO Global Geoparks as hoped that, through this training, Satellite Receiving Station, Early well as representatives from the Geopark managers could have a Warning System of Forest Fire and World Biosphere Reserves in China deeper understanding of how to use Virtual Reality Technology which are participated in the training. space technologies for monitoring informative and beneficial. Meanwhile, Mr. Zheng Yuan, Coordinator, and management of the geoparks, they toured the research facilities of Chinese Geoparks Network, and Mr. thus contributing to the cooperation HIST’s hosting institution -- Institute of Hong Tianhua, Executive Deputy between HIST and UNESCO Global Remote Sensing and Digital Earth of the Director of HIST, both addressed the Geopark administrative committees. Chinese Academy of Sciences including opening ceremony of the Course. In Mr. Hong gave a presentation titled the first ever satellite receiving station in China -- Miyun Satellite Receiving Station. What’s more, all the participants were very pleased in the end to have obtained the valuable satellite data which can tell the changes of their respective UNESCO Global Geoparks over the past 30 years, and a software of how the system of the virtual satellite Group photo receiving station is used.

46 GGN NEWSLETTER 2017 ISSUE 3 Workshop and Course raining Course on Using Space Technologies Review of the 3rd International Training for UNESCO Global Geoparks Course on Global Geoparks, T Convened in Beijing Beijing, China

Following the great successes of the 1st and 2nd International Training Courses on Global Geoparks, Beijing, China in 2016, and under the strong supports from the Global Geoparks Network (GGN), UNESCO Jakarta Office, Department of Geo-environment at the Ministry of Land and Resources, China, Chinese Geoparks Network, and University of the Aegean, Greece, the 3rd International Training Course on Global Geoparks themed The training course venus the ‘Geoparks Management and Earth Heritage Interpretation’ was successfully held in Beijing, China from December 3 to 8, 2017. This Course was jointly organized by the China University of Geosciences, Beijing and Fangshan UNESCO Global Geopark, China. A total of 100 participants from 25 UNESCO Global Geoparks of China (including many high-rank geopark managers), several aspiring Group photo of invited lectures and Chinese authorities UNESCO Global Geoparks from China, and more than 10 geopark Zouros (Greece), Jin Xiaochi China), Zheng Yuan (China), Tian technical supporting organizations (China), I. Komoo (Malaysia), Mingzhong (China) and Wu Fadong and universities took part in the M. Watanabe (Japan), M. Frey (China). training course. (Germany), K. Rangnes (Norway) The Training Course started with The invited lectures included and Zhang Jianping (China), as well an opening ceremony on 8:30am 7 GGN ExB members (or UGGp as the geoparks experts I. Valiakos December 4, 2017. Mr. Liu Yuan, Council members), they are: N. (Greece), KM Yeung (Hong Kong, inspector at the department of geo-

47 GGN NEWSLETTER 2017 ISSUE 3 Workshop and Course

Mr. Liu Yuan addressing his speech N. Zouros delivering his lecture K. Rangnes giving her presentation

environment, Ministry of Land and UGG Operational Guidelines, GGN operation; the role of visitor centers Resources, Mr. He Qingcheng, Statutes and Code of ethics, as well in UNESCO Global Geoparks and executive director of Chinese as UGG evaluation and revalidation World Heritage sites; how to Design Geoparks Network, Mr. Qi Wendong, processes. and Develop a signage system vice mayor of Fangshan District, Meanwhile, the UNESCO Global for geopark: Examples from Hong Beijing, and Professor Wang Xunlian, Geoparks and Geo-conservation in Kong UGGp; Geological Heritage vice president of China University Asia and Pacific; Global Geoparks Interpretation Facilities and Tools. of Geosciences (Beijing) delivered Network and Regional Geoparks Examples from UNESCO Global their speeches on congratulating the Networks: Networking and Common Geoparks; Geoheritage interpretation: opening of the training course, and Activities; UNESCO Global Geoparks Examples from Alxa, Hexigten and expressed their strong support on the in China: Quo Status and Challenges; Arsan, Dunhuang and Langkawi geopark capacity building activity in UNESCO Global Geoparks UNESCO Global Geoparks. By the Beijing. Professor S. Khan, director of Collaboration Agreements: Framework way, how to correctly use the different UNESCO Regional Science Bureau – Common activities and Results. logos related to geoparks is also for Asia and the Pacific (Jakarta) also Global Geoparks Network Working introduced. delivered an address to congratulate Groups – structure and operation; There were more than ten the opening of the training course the GGN WG on Tourism and the geoparks sharing their practice through internet. Geoparks activities on Tourism; and experiences on geoparks As same as previous courses, the Geosciences Research in Geoparks; management, geopark museums and training course comprises two parts: Geoparks Contribution to UNESCO interpretation with attendance, the the first part was dedicated to the Sustainable Development Goals, and invited lecturers gave them excellently UNESCO Geoparks Management, Management System of Geoparks in constructive advises. and the second part was dedicated Japan and Community Involvement The training course included one- to the Geopark Museum, Visitor were also presented. day field trip. On December 7, all Centers, and Earth Heritage The invited lecturers answered participants of the course took a field Interpretation. the participants’ questions on many trip in Fangshan UNESCO Global The first part of the Course from aspects. Geopark, including visiting its geopark December 4-5, was held at the China The second part of the Course from museum, Peking Man Museum, as University of Geosciences, Beijing. December 6-8, 2017, was held in the well as some visitor centers and The invited lecturers focused their Fangshan UNESCO Global Geopark. interpretation panels in the geopark presentations on the geopark concept The contents concentrated on the territory. and management, IGGP Statutes and Geopark Museum: management and During the training course, there

48 GGN NEWSLETTER 2017 ISSUE 3 Workshop and Course

were many parallel bilateral and During visiting the Peking Man of the training course were warmly multi-lateral meetings on Geoparks Site, Marie-Luise met the director welcomed by the most participants, management experience exchange of Peking Man Museum, and had a especially the higher-rank geopark and collaboration interviews among good discussion on enhancing the managers. Besides, this training the attended Geoparks. cooperation among the world heritage course was also providing an Parallel to the Course the attending site-bearing geoparks and other opportunity for many UNESCO GGN ExB members held the 38th common interests. Global Geoparks to get together GGN ExB meeting (December 3). In general, this training course was for sharing their experiences on Meanwhile, the major GGN ExB greatly successful on many aspects, geoparks management, museum members met Professor Cheng all presentations were arranged and interpretation system designs Qiuming, the president of IUGS, and with the Chinese translation, which and building, improving mutual had an informal interview, which was helpful for attendance to clearly understanding and carrying out improved mutual understanding understand the contents offered by the potential collaborations among between the GGN and IUGS. The experts. At the same time, many geoparks. attended GGN ExB members visited Chinese young geopark experts (most The students majoring on the GGN Beijing Office and met Dr. of them are the UGGp evaluators) Geotourism from China University of Yan Guangsheng, Executive Vice- were well trained and improved during Geosciences, Beijing took part in the President of Chinese Academy of their doing translation. training course. Geological Sciences, Director for the Another good phenomenon is that We do think that the 3rd Chinese Geoparks Network (CGN), most participants actively participated International Training Course on and Ms Yuan Xiaohong, responsible in discussions and communications UNESCO Global Geoparks will make person for geoparks affairs at the during the training course, it marks positive contribution to the further Ministry of Land and Resources, that Chinese UGGps are willing to development of the UNESCO Global China. They had discussed many more deeply involving in the UGGp Geoparks not only in China, but also geopark issues between the GGN family and more actively participating the Asia-Pacific Region. and China, exchanged mutual in geoparks issues. Zhang Jianping and Nikolaos Zouros concerns and obtained numerous This reasonable, targeting co-coordinators of the training course consensuses. arrangement and extensive contents

Visiting the Stone Flower Cave, Fangshan UGGp

Visiting the interpretation system, Fangshan UGGp

49 GGN NEWSLETTER 2017 ISSUE 3 Workshop and Course

The Basque Coast UNESCO Global Geopark Hosts the 3rd Basque Country Geodiversity Conference

Basque Coast UNESCO Global Geopark, Spain

The 3rd Basque Country Geodiversity Conference was Three days of lectures, round tables successfully held in the Basque Coast UNESCO Global and a field trip Geopark on November 22nd to 24th, 2017. Nearly 120 The first day of the conference kicked off with an representatives attended the Conference. It was organized institutional round table which included the mayors of the in partnership with the Basque Government's Department three municipalities comprising the Geopark (Deba, of the Environment. The Conference included lectures, and ) and the Basque Government’s Director of the round tables with professional participants and a field trip to Natural Environment and Climate Change. observe the management of the key places of interest in the The lectures followed, presented by five experts in the Basque Coast Geopark. field, including Luis Carcavilla of the Geological and Mineral This is the first time that the Basque Coast UNESCO Association of Spain, who advocated promoting and Global Geopark takes charge of hosting the Basque exploiting the interest and value of geological heritage with Country Geodiversity Conference. The Conference was the main aim of ensuring its conservation. organized by the Basque Coast UNESCO Global Geopark The scientific director of the Basque Coast Geopark, Asier in partnership with the Basque Government’s Department for Hilario, also participated in the conference to present the the Environment, University of the Basque Country and the development process for the Basque Country Inventory of Professional Association of Geologists. Places of Geological Interest and to highlight the region’s The summit gathered around 120 people who are possession of first-rate geological heritage and geodiversity. interested and involved in driving forward the Basque On the second day of the conference, two round tables took Country Geodiversity Strategy 2020 for preserving place between professionals and public and private partners and managing the geological heritage identified in the who are directly involved in projects related to geotourism, “Basque Country Inventory of Places of Geological education and the promotion of geodiversity in the Basque Interest”. Country. The first of them tackled the issue of geotourism, The main aim of the conference was to offer a vision focusing on building its foundations, identifying priorities and of how geological diversity, or geodiversity, can act as a driving geotourism forward. The second round table dealt with complement or even a distinguishing feature to open up the area of education and raising awareness of geodiversity. new educational and tourism possibilities that can boost an Around 30 people participated in each round table. area’s appeal. Furthermore, the conference asserted that the On the last day, the conference concluded with a field trip management of natural heritage includes geological heritage to the Basque Coast Geopark to observe its key places of among its fields of work. interest, as well as its management and daily use for tourism.

50 GGN NEWSLETTER 2017 ISSUE 3 Future Conferences and Courses

nternational Intensive Course I on UNESCO Global Geoparks 2018 “UNESCO Global Geoparks and Geoheritage management” June 7-17, 2018, Lesvos island – Greece

UNESCO, and the Global platform of cooperation for Earth experts, as well as specialists in Geoparks Network are co-organizing heritage management supporting Earth heritage management in theory the 10th session of the International sustainable local development, and practice and 40 hours field Intensive Course on Geoparks 2018 local communities’ cohesion and training and activities. “UNESCO Global Geoparks and development world-wide. · an Activity Report, long distance Earth heritage management” Through the Intensive Course assisted work, which shall take place The Course is organized by on Geoparks 2018, the annual after the end of the course. the University of the Aegean – capacity building activity of the The course is open to Geopark Department of Geography and Global Geoparks Network, attendees staff members, geoscientists, local the Natural History Museum of the will have the opportunity to widen development professionals and Lesvos Petrified Forest, in Lesvos their knowledge and expertise on students involved in geo-education island – UNESCO Global Geopark, UNESCO Global Geoparks and Earth in relation with geo-conservation, North Aegean Region, Greece, one heritage protection, conservation popularization of Earth sciences, of the first Global Geoparks in the and management as a tool for geopark management, geotourism world. sustainable tourism development, to and sustainable development of rural The Course will take place from cooperate with different disciplines areas. June 7th to 17th June, 2018. and countries. Those who are interested in The Intensive Course on Geoparks The Intensive Course on Geoparks participating in the course are invited 2018 aims to focus on the UNESCO 2018 comprises of theoretical to submit the respective application Global Geoparks contribution on background together with extensive form accompanied by a short CV shared and sustainable outcomes fieldwork. and an abstract (one page) of their related to Earth heritage protection, The main activities of the Course presentation, which they will present conservation and management – include: during the Course. tying sustainability together with · pre-lectures activities which will community pride and benefit, take place through e- class on May ECTS Credits economic development and new 30th 2018 and distribution of the Participants will gain 5 ECTS employment as well as holistic latest documents regarding Geoparks credits after successful completion of territorial identity promotion. and Earth Heritage Management, the Intensive course on Geoparks. UNESCO Global Geoparks, through · 11 days – 80 hours ‘hands on Application deadline: broad stakeholder engagement, programme’ distributed as following: May 10th, 2018 celebrating the U.N. Sustainable 40 hours lectures by top UNESCO Further information: http://www. Development Goals, provide a global and Global Geoparks Network petrifiedforest.gr/geoparks2018/

51 GGN NEWSLETTER 2017 ISSUE 3 Future Conferences and Courses

International 8thConference Adamello group (Photo by F.Arnoldi) on UNESCO Global Geoparks —Adamelo Brenta UNESCO Global Geopark Italy, 10-14 September 2018

Adamello Brenta UNESCO Global Geopark, Italy

The Adamello Brenta UNESCO protect through the development of pastures and much more. And last Global Geopark has the honour to suitable geotourism and activities of but not least, the people living in host the 8th International Conference sustainable development. You are all these mountains, proudly following on UNESCO Global Geoparks. The invited to discover the uniqueness of the traditional activities engaged in Conference will be held in Madonna its geodiversity: two different geologic promoting a social and economic di Campiglio, Trentino, Italy, from 11st and geomorphologic mountain ranges sustainable development. to 14th September 2018, with the facing each other, glaciers, lakes, The Adamello Brenta Geopark is theme: “Geoparks and sustainable waterfalls, karstic springs, fossils, located on the west side of Trentino, development”. caves, magmatic, sedimentary and in north-eastern Italy. It’s reachable The Adamello Brenta Geopark metamorphic rocks all in one place. through numerous airports in north territory represents an area And also brown bears, chamois, of Italy served by daily flights to Asia of extraordinary geological- deers, eagles, marmots and many Pacific, Europe, America and Africa, environmental interest and value, that other animals. As well as forests of fir, and it’s also easily accessible by train the Geopark aims to promote and beech, larch, flower-filled meadows, or car.

52 GGN NEWSLETTER 2017 ISSUE 3 The Conference will take place at Pala Campiglio in Madonna di Campiglio town, at the heart of the Geopark. The Conference will be preceded, from 8th to 10th September, by the

Meetings of UGG Council, GGN ExB Brenta Dolomites (Photo by M.Bening) and Regional Networks Meetings. The main theme of the Conference Global Geopark will be hosted at the is “Geoparks and Sustainable Conference centre in collaboration Development” and the deadline for with the GGN Working group on the abstract submission is the 15th of Intangible Heritage. April, 2018. A special programme is offered During the Conference, in addition to the accompanying persons of Fossil(Photo by F.Velo) to the conference sessions, special the delegates (partners, families workshops will be organized in and friends), including excursions, cultural heritage of Italy and its main collaboration with the relevant GGN activities and guided tours in order to cities. Working groups. live and discover the Adamello Brenta For more information: www. The third day of the Conference, Nature Geopark in its entirety during ggn2018.com 13th September, is dedicated to the the Conference, from 11th to 14th Come and visit the Adamello mid-conference field trip. Participants September. Brenta UNESCO Global Geopark will have the opportunity to choose For those who would like to take and participate in the 8th International among the six available options, the advantage of the journey to Italy Conference on UNESCO Global —Adamelo Brenta UNESCO Global Geopark Italy, in order to know and experience and have the possibility to move up Geoparks in September 2018 to find the geological, natural and cultural or extend their stay, Pre and Post out the secrets of the Earth's history 10-14 September 2018 peculiarities of the Adamello Brenta Conference Tour are organized and live the Italian natural and cultural UNESCO Global Geopark. together with the Italian Geoparks, heritage! A set of social and cultural events where it will be possible to visit and Vajolet Masè are planned during the Conference, admire the geological, natural and [email protected] with the opportunity to get in contact with the local people and their traditions and the Italian lifestyle as well. In addition, there will be available the adequate space for the exhibitions at the Geo-fair, to showcase and promote the own territories and UNESCO Global Geopark, its services, activities and typical products to over eight hundred delegates from all over the world. A singular exhibition about the Intangible Heritage from the UNESCO Mountain Huts(Photo by A.Cotti)

53 GGN NEWSLETTER 2017 ISSUE 3 Acknowledgements: The compilation and publication of the Newsletter are also supported by China Geological Survey (DD20179312) and Central Public-interest Scientific Institution Basal Research Fund (YWF201606).